Yes, sweaters come into play in fall and winter, but they're really a year-round wardrobe staple - so a range of the best knitwear brands is essential. Of course, sweaters have their place in spring and summer too. For example, lightweight mariner stripes or loose woven sweaters that you can wear with white summer dresses or over your swimsuit, or a cardigan that you can throw on over a breezy dress or blouse on chilly days in April and May. And when the fall gets colder and the winter gets brutally cold, the coziest, most luxurious styles become real heroes.
We're talking crew necks and cardigans with denim and dresses. Turtlenecks, both fitted and oversized, for layering or worn loosely over leggings. And, of course, sweater dresses of all kinds - from ribbed silhouettes to elegant cashmere styles. Knit casual sets and pants are great for everything from traveling to cozy get-togethers with family during the holidays, or perhaps a quick errand or coffee run.
Whenever or however you want to bundle up, keep scrolling for Vogue's selection of the best knitwear brands, from luxury labels like Khaite and The Row to popular brands like Everlane, Loro Piana, Vince and Ganni.
Filippa K
Swedish fashion house Filippa K has recently undergone a facelift under the direction of its new creative director Liisa Kessler, who joined from Saint Laurent. Nordic craftsmanship and sensibility are cut with a razor-sharp blade. The result? Comfort meets coolness, and that goes for the knitwear too.
Cos
Since last year, 86 percent of the materials used to make Cos clothing have been sourced from sustainable production. At the heart of the brand are durable, well-made pieces that have a low impact on the planet. So far, so good. Our tip? The short sweaters and half-zip sweaters will quickly become the backbone of your wardrobe.
Begg X Co
The marriage of industry and nature is the inspiration behind the designs of Begg X Co. With colors reminiscent of misty green pastures or cobbled city streets, these gorgeously soft sweaters blend effortlessly into rural and urban landscapes. The Scottish brand uses age-old techniques and cutting-edge technology to create memorable, high-quality pieces.
Uniqlo
Although Uniqlo's warmth technology is popular in cold weather, the Japanese retailer is a guarantee for high-quality, affordable knitwear. You'll always find perfect basics here, from sweaters made from extra-fine merino wool to cashmere, all in neutral tones and cheerful colors. There are also pieces from designer collaborations such as JW Anderson.
Marks & Spencer
Marks & Spencer clothing has been a staple in British households since the company was founded in 1884. They are simple, high quality and reasonably priced. The knitwear does exactly what it is supposed to do: They keep you warm and cozy. In short: you shouldn't mess with a classic.
Ralph Lauren
Since 1967, Ralph Lauren has been a trusted go-to for upscale basics. The iconic American brand creates intricately woven knitwear in a variety of colors that are suitable for any occasion.
Boden
Boden is a true classic and never disappoints when it comes to closet basics. As a partner of the Good Cashmere Standard® by AbTF, the fashion house takes all aspects of conscious cashmere production into account and has set itself the goal of producing all garments from 100% sustainable materials by 2025.
Everlane
Everlane has made a name for itself with shoppers and editors alike with its ethical approach to the closet. In keeping with the label's no-frills aesthetic, the knitwear is simple yet covetable, from the range of ReCashmere sweaters (made from recycled materials) to nostalgic cardigans, polos and half-zips.
&Daughter
If you're looking for great knitwear with a purpose, look no further than &Daughter. Each piece is made with love and a slow fashion approach by 'experts' in the UK and Ireland. From the natural yarns to the handmade pieces, value is everything. The Fintra sweater is a best seller, loved for its flattering fit and enduring appeal.
Extreme Cashmere
Dutch label Extreme Cashmere prides itself on knitwear made for 'everyone and every body'. Founder Saskia Dijkstra has managed to design unisex knitwear that is built to last: classic shapes are infused with unexpected color accents and whimsical details and crafted from super-soft Mongolian cashmere.
& Other Stories
Founded in 2009 and currently under the H&M umbrella, the store is admired for its minimalist silhouettes, quality materials and fun collaborations (last spring's partnership with Rejina Pyo was a big moment for the high street brand). & Other Stories newbies should head straight for the embellished Christmas sweaters.
Allude
Andrea Karg, the mastermind behind German-based label Allude, quit her career in law to design knitwear. It's fair to say that it has paid off. Since its inception in 1993, the brand has collaborated with several luxury stores and presented numerous collections at Paris Fashion Week. Karg's first design - a seductive V-neck cashmere sweater - remains a customer favorite to this day.
Arket
Arket sets itself apart from the rest of the H&M family with its mix of modern, eco-conscious pieces and cool homewares. For those who dream of elevated knitwear, the sheer merino turtlenecks and half-zip fleece sweaters are just the ticket.
Ganni
Known for its quirky prints and exaggerated shapes, Danish label Ganni was established in 2000 by its founder Frans Truelsen as a cashmere clothing line. In the late 2010s, husband and wife team Nicolaj Reffstrup and Ditte Reffstrup took the helm and have since delivered iconic balloon-sleeved sweaters, cardigans with poplin collars and oversized turtlenecks in cozy cashmere, thick cotton and the brand's latest recycled wool.
Khaite
Founded in 2016 by Catherine Holstein, New York-based Khaite is loved for its robust offering of polished basics with ease, all characterized by quality materials and subtle yet striking details. The collection consists mainly of knitwear, including pieces such as the Scarlet cardigan with bell sleeves, the casual Polo Jo sweater and ribbed dresses with sculptural necklines, including the Beth and Alessandra midis.
Vince
Now in its 20th year, Vince is a much-loved Los Angeles label offering versatile, always sophisticated basics. The contemporary knitwear is tried and tested - from minimalist round necks and V-necks to oversized funnel necklines and cashmere lounge sets - and pairs perfectly with the label's signature silk slips and skirts. Everything is offered in both regular and plus sizes.
The Row
The Row, run by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, is synonymous with luxuriously spun knitwear. Bestsellers range from simple crew necks and turtlenecks to subtle but impeccably detailed cardigans, sweater dresses and intricate sweaters. Following the Olsens' personal taste, a common theme is the oversized fit - perfect for layering.
Alanui
Alanui's belted jacquard cardigans, characterized by a buttonless, oversized silhouette with dense fringing, launched the Italian label and have since amassed a cult following. Founded by siblings Nicolò and Carlotta Oddi, the brand has expanded its range to include knitted skirts, bralettes, shorts and sweaters. Of course, we can't help but champion the piece that started it all.
La Ligne
Founded by Vogue veterans Meredith Melling and Valerie Macaulay and former head of business development at Rag & Bone, Molly Howard, La Ligne focuses on timeless pieces that are all united by the stripe. Some garments are more literal than others, from classic Breton striped sweaters to playful color block sweaters and knit polo shirts.
Loro Piana
Founded in 1924 in Quarona, Italy, the Italian high-end label Loro Piana is famous for ultra-decadent fabrics, including luxurious cashmere and wool products in knitwear. It's the ultimate label when it comes to sweaters, knit sets, heavy cable knits and more - this season, don't miss the fall-toned jacquard turtleneck sweaters and ribbed ombré cashmere.
Brunello Cucinelli
Brunello Cucinelli is not only known for luxurious Italian craftsmanship, but also as the king of cashmere, specializing in knitwear of all kinds. The finely spun garments with the unmistakable sportivo chic range from cardigans and crewnecks in an alpaca blend with pointelle knit to knits with pearls and metallic flecks for festive occasions.
Raey
Raey is the Vogue team's go-to source for wardrobe essentials, including the ever-popular timeless knitwear. Creative director Rachel Proud has a clear idea of her customer: "She has a lot to do," she told British Vogue. "And money to invest, because she wants to wear this merino sweater for a really long time."
Totême
It's no wonder that Totême's knitwear regularly sells out. The Stockholm-based brand specializes in iconic sweaters, such as the Breton striped models, which are not only cosy but also wonderfully stylish.
Chinti & Parker
The colorful, offbeat knitwear from Chinti & Parker stands out from the crowd. The London-based label was founded in 2009 by Anna Singh and Rachael Wood with the aim of "enlivening women's wardrobes with knitwear that celebrates cheerful colors, timeless shapes and innovative textures".
Isabel Marant
Since founding her eponymous label in 1994, Isabel Marant has established herself as a force to be reckoned with. The Parisian designer's collections, characterized by comfortable sweatshirts, chunky knits and technical materials, have become coveted vintage-style garments for the French woman.
Bamford
Bamford not only produces handmade knitwear, but is also known for its ethically sourced materials and close collaboration with small artisan businesses. The traditional British brand has a knack for creating long-lasting pieces, making every purchase a good investment.
January 04, 2024